Joe Don Baker, a rugged and memorable presence in American film and television, has died at the age of 89. He passed away on May 7, according to an official obituary, and is survived by a close group of friends and family in his native Groesbeck, Texas.
Baker rose to prominence with his leading role as Buford Pusser in the 1973 action drama Walking Tall, portraying a real-life sheriff known for his fierce fight against crime. His portrayal turned the film into a box office success and made Baker a household name in the 1970s.
He also became well known for his work in the James Bond franchise, playing arms dealer Brad Whitaker in The Living Daylights (1987) and returning as CIA agent Jack Wade in GoldenEye (1995) and Tomorrow Never Dies (1997).
Born on February 12, 1936, in Texas, Baker attended Groesbeck High School and North Texas State College before serving two years in the U.S. Army. He later moved to New York City to pursue acting, beginning his career in television with a small part in the 1965 Western series Iron Horse.
Baker’s uncredited film debut came in 1967’s Cool Hand Luke. He went on to star in numerous acclaimed films including The Natural (1984), Fletch (1985), Cape Fear (1991), Reality Bites, Mars Attacks!, and the TV movie Poodle Springs.
His television work included appearances in Edge of Darkness, a recurring role in In the Heat of the Night, and guest spots on Gunsmoke and Lancer. He also starred in the series Eischeid.
Baker retired in 2012. His final role was in the film Mud, where his performance, along with the ensemble cast, received the Robert Altman Award at the Independent Spirit Awards.
In his personal life, Baker was married once, to Marlo Baker, from 1969 until their divorce in 1980. The couple had no children.
A funeral for Joe Don Baker will be held on May 20 in Mission Hills, California. He will be remembered for his deep voice, strong screen presence, and contributions to both film and television.
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